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West Ham boss: More than 35 points needed to avoid relegation

Avram Grant is confident West Ham will avoid the drop into the English Championship but is also certain that more than 35 points will be needed to keep out of the bottom three.
Grant said: "I believe very much in this club. But I believe we need to look in the mirror and see what we are now. We were not Barcelona in the last year and the years before.

"I don't say anything against the people in the past but our target is very clear, not to be relegated.

"I'm sure there is a very good future here at West Ham if we do the right things."

Wins against Barnsley in the FA Cup and Birmingham in the Carling Cup have boosted confidence and Grant said: "We are developing. Three months ago we were playing good football but football is about results. We are improving also because the spirit is very good, which you saw the other night. I feel every game we can win."

He also feels to avoid relegation any club must get close to the fabled 40 points.

"We will have many changes in the table," Grant said. "Nothing will be decided this month. It is not just football, it's about spirit. There will be seven teams or more (involved in the relegation battle).

"Last season it was 35 points, this season I don't think 35 will be enough. I don't know how much more but it's very important to be strong against the teams around you."